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HomeFinancialSaudi Arabia and Qatar Settle Syria’s World Bank Arrears to Boost Reconstruction

Saudi Arabia and Qatar Settle Syria’s World Bank Arrears to Boost Reconstruction

The World Bank support for Syria have decided to jointly pay Syria’s $15 million debt to the World Bank. This move unlocks critical World Bank support for Syria. As a result, Syria will again access funding for public services and national rebuilding.

The World Bank support for Syria halted its operations in Syria over 14 years ago. However, for Syria this settlement ends a long financial freeze. It also allows the Bank to offer millions in grants to restart Syria’s economy. More importantly, these funds will help rebuild hospitals, schools, and key public infrastructure.

This payment is the first known Saudi financial contribution to Syria since Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapsed in late 2024. Although other Gulf nations expressed willingness, past pledges stalled due to U.S. sanctions. Now, this joint action signals Gulf nations are ready to support Syria again.

Qatar’s Finance Minister, Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari, highlighted the urgency. He said the world must help Syria rebuild its broken institutions. He also stressed that international funding is essential to restore stability. Rebuilding Syria could cost up to $400 billion, making regional support crucial.

Meanwhile, World Bank support for Syria will help stabilize its paralyzed public sector. Teachers, doctors, and civil servants will benefit directly. In addition, local economies may see new opportunities as aid and grants begin to flow again.

World Bank support for Syria also called on global financial institutions to act without delay. They stressed that now is the time to re-engage with Syria. According to both nations, renewed cooperation is essential to stabilize the country’s economy and restore basic services. They believe early financial action will help rebuild public trust and foster social stability.

Moreover, Riyadh and Doha emphasized that rebuilding Syria requires a coordinated international effort. They urged regional and international lenders to expand their roles in funding infrastructure, health, education, and government services. By stepping in quickly, these institutions can help Syria avoid further humanitarian and economic collapse.

The two Gulf nations also warned that inaction would prolong the suffering of millions of Syrians. They argued that development-focused engagement, rather than isolation, offers a pathway to sustainable peace. With the conflict now over, they said Syria needs partners willing to invest in recovery, not just promises of future support.

Through this appeal, Saudi Arabia and Qatar aim to encourage long-term peace and development across the Middle East. They hope that global financial institutions will follow their lead and help reintegrate Syria into the global economy.

World Bank support for Syria represents more than just a financial shift. It shows a new regional willingness to help a post-conflict nation recover. Thus, this joint move may inspire wider international action in the near future.